"Reilly may be a little bored:" Pegula likes Opelka speaking his mind but takes broader view on doubles debate

American tennis player Reilly Opelka has been very vocal lately regarding his disdain for doubles, but compatriot Jessica Pegula doesn't believe fans should read too much into it.

Opelka, who is currently recovering from an injury, previously stated that doubles would only be taken seriously only if top singles stars were involved, and has even suggested the event should be scrapped entirely.

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However, Pegula believes her countryman may be voicing these opinions due to a lack of activity.

"I like Reilly, but he always likes to make these comments and get people talking, which I like that about him as well," said Pegula. "He is not afraid to say what he wants. He is entitled to that opinion, but I personally love playing doubles."

"But, I could see his point, but at the same time I do think that tennis recreationally most players play doubles, so I think there is some sort of fan base there," she added. "I don’t really think we’ve tapped into that the best because everyone in South Florida, you look at all these leagues, all these women’s, ladies doubles leagues. It’s their whole life. It’s so popular. So I think there is something there. Maybe we just haven’t reached it.”